Explore the factory where Steinway pianos are made
In conjunction with the current exhibition Made in America: The Industrial Photography of Christopher Payne, tour the iconic New York City factory where Steinway pianos have been made for over one hundred years. Throughout the tour, we will visit some of the key spaces where the pianos are made and put together. Families will learn about the history of the company, the manufacturing process, and what goes into the making of the pianos played by orchestras across the United States.
This program is for children ages 10 years and older and their adult family members or caretakers. There is an adult tour at 3:00 p.m.
Please note: The factory will not be in production during the tour. Children must be 10 years or older to participate.
ABOUT STEINWAY & SONS
Steinway & Sons was founded in 1853 by German immigrant Henry Engelhard Steinway in a Manhattan loft on Varick Street. Over the next thirty years, Henry and his sons developed the modern piano. They built their instruments one at a time, applying skills that have been handed down from master to apprentice, generation after generation, ever since. Steinways are still handmade in the Steinway New York and Hamburg factories.
Accessibility & What to Expect:
- Format: The program will include standing and walking throughout the historic Steinway factory for about one hour. During this time, participants will climb and descend several staircases and stand for sustained periods of time. Please note that this tour is not wheelchair accessible. If you would like more information to determine your ability to participate, please call 212.849.8353 or email CHEducation@si.edu.
- About the space: The program will take place offsite in Astoria, Queens. The exact address will be sent to registered attendees before the event.
- Accommodations: We recognize this tour may not be accessible to all. If you have any questions about the format or additional information about the tour, please contact at CHEducation@si.edu or let us know when you register. Please make your request as far in advance as possible—preferably at least ten days before the program date. Read more about accessibility at Cooper Hewitt.
SUPPORT
Made in America: The Industrial Photography of Christopher Payne received support from Smithsonian’s Our Shared Future: 250, a Smithsonian-wide initiative commemorating the nation’s 250th anniversary. Signature support for Smithsonian’s Our Shared Future: 250 has been provided by Lilly Endowment Inc. Additional generous contributions have been made by Target and New Balance.
